LEAN+: SPC

LEAN+: Statistical Process Control (SPC)

Statistical Process Control (SPC) is a method of process monitoring through the use of statistical techniques which enable to distinguish events of significance. Variations in the process that may affect the quality of the end product or service can be detected by inspecting the samples at various stages of the process. Timely correcting of these incremental variations improves the quality of final product. Early detection and prevention of statistically-detected problems has an advantage over the “traditional’ quality inspection/control.

SPC provides economical method of quality verification for big volume products and is suitable for the identification of various sources of waste. Process cycle time reductions combined with improvements in production/processing yields lead to the potential cost reductions through improved quality and improved customer satisfaction.

Properly selected and implemented statistical tools and techniques allow for better understanding of the processes; identification and elimination of the causes of variation. Modern Quality Management effectively applies selected statistical methods to the monitoring and control of a process to ensure that it operates at its highest potential to produce conforming product. An optimized, controlled process behaves predictably and produce conforming products with a minimum possible waste. While statistical tools have been applied most frequently to the manufacturing lines, they may be applied to any other process with a measurable output.

Statistical tools offer the ability to examine and control the variation through objective analysis of contributing factors and their outcomes, and allows for optimization of each identified source of variation. Variations that may affect the quality of the product or service can be detected and corrected, thus reducing waste and the likelihood of potential problems. Early detection and prevention of problems offers a distinct advantage over inspection that only can identify and correct problems after they have occurred.

Once the causes of variation have been quantified, effort is spent in eliminating those causes that are both statistically and practically significant (i.e. a cause that has a only small but statistically significant effect may not be considered cost-effective to fix; conversely, a cause that is not statistically significant cannot be considered practically significant). In addition to reducing waste, properly selected and implemented statistical techniques can lead to a reduction in the time required to produce the product or deliver the service. This is partially due to a diminished likelihood that the final product will need to be reworked. Statistical data may be used also to identify and correct potential and actual bottlenecks, wait times, and other weaknesses resulting in both, a cost reduction and an increased customer satisfaction.

Quexx International Ltd. consultants are dedicated to providing you with exceptional quality services. Extensive experience and expertise of our consultants offers training and consulting services tailored to suit your needs and your unique work environment. QUEXX consultants were trained by Toyota Motor Corporation, a World leader in Continuous Improvement, and have hands-on experience in implementing LEAN techniques of Toyota Production System.